What causes the bottom of my feet to be dry and cracked?

This winter you may notice the bottom of your foot is dry and cracked. Before you pull out your sandals for your spring break trip get your feet summer ready. This common problem occurs for two reasons. #1. Your skin becomes naturally dry in the winter months. #2. Your environment makes your skin dry and cracked. Typically, we see the second common in the summertime when you may wear more open shoes or sandals. The dust and dirt on the ground causes your feet, and heels especially, to dry and crack. The first is a problem now when our feet are cold and dry from the heat in our homes and work places. Both are well treated with an excellent moisturizing cream. Ask Monmouth County Podiatrist Dr. Allison Cheney to recommend one for you.

Another, often overlooked reason for dry and cracked feet, is because of a fungal infection, such as athlete's foot. This is commonly misdiagnosed, since there often is no itching or burning symptoms and the foot does appear very dry. In these cases, treatment is often effective using a strong moisturizing cream in conjunction with a prescription anti-fungal medication. Female podiatrist Dr. Cheney says results are typically seen in the first 2 weeks of treatment.

If your dry, cracked heels and feet are not properly treated, the cracks can worsen and bleed. This is painful for everyone and can be limb threating if you have diabetes. The cracks can become infected and difficult to heal. Treating cracks in your heel early, before they become problematic, will ensure that your feet stay healthy and remove the risk of infection.

If have already tried moisturizing cream with poor results, visit AllCare Foot & Ankle we specialize in adult and children foot and ankle care. We can recommend the best treatment for your painful cracked heels and assess if you need an antifungal medicine as well. If necessary, Dr. Cheney can do an in office skin biopsy that will provide her with a better understanding of what is occurring at the skin level.

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Monday
9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Tuesday
9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Wednesday
9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Thursday
9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Friday
9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Saturday
By Appointment
Sunday
Closed